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In Michigan, two flourishing sectors within the legal industry are merging as certain tribal governments that oversee casino operations are venturing into the rapidly growing cannabis market.
In their pursuit of generating revenue for their members, enterprising tribes in Michigan are exploring opportunities in the legal marijuana industry, mirroring their successful ventures with casinos. If these endeavors prove fruitful, it could also bring vital tax revenue into Lansing, thus assisting in funding various state programs.
Michigan Tribes needed further legislation to legally sell cannabis
It is important for tribes to adhere to the specific regulations that apply to them. Native tribal nations have distinct guidelines governing the production, cultivation, and sale of products derived from their land. These regulations are enforced by the Bureau of Indian Affairs as mandated by federal law.
According to the state, Michigan tribes are gradually exploring opportunities in the cannabis market, which generated $250 million in sales for both medical and recreational purposes in March.
Michigan tribes are utilizing their land and capital to venture into the recreational marijuana industry, either by establishing cannabis stores, smoking lounges, or dispensaries.
In the year 2022, a law was enacted by Michigan lawmakers, granting the 13 indigenous tribes residing within the state the authority to engage in the sale of recreational marijuana. This legislation includes a provision where a portion of the revenue generated from these sales will be taxed and subsequently allocated back to the tribes. Additionally, the law allows the tribes to seek licenses from the Marijuana Regulatory Agency of the state, thereby enabling them to participate as growers, processors, cannabis testers, or transporters of the product.
Tribal casinos with nearby legal marijuana businesses
Several Michigan tribes are participating in the legal cannabis market, and many have intentions to expand their presence in an industry projected to generate sales nearing $2 billion by 2025.
Bay Mills Indian Community – Northern Lights Cannabis Company
In 2020, a remarkable initiative was undertaken by the Bay Mills Indian Community in Sault Ste. Marie, located in the eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This pioneering endeavor involved the fusion of cannabis and casino, resulting in the establishment of a marijuana store situated at the junction of I-75 and M-28.
In addition to visiting a store, Bay Mills took it a step further by establishing a 10,000-plant grow facility on its reservation. Moreover, they have intentions to expand their operations by constructing a cannabis processing facility in the U.P. The tribe has chosen to market their marijuana business as the Northern Light Cannabis Company.
Former Bay Mills Tribal Chairman Bryan Newland made it explicitly clear in 2020 that the tribe is maintaining a clear distinction between its gaming and cannabis enterprises. During an interview with GGB News, Newland emphasized that Northern Lights Cannabis Company operates independently from their gaming business. He highlighted that the cannabis venture was financed using investment capital and serves as a means to diversify their existing business holdings.
Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians – Rolling Embers
Rolling Embers, a cannabis retail store and lounge, was launched by the Pokagaon Band in April. Situated on the tribe’s owned land at Exit 1 on I-94 in New Buffalo, the facility is a newly constructed establishment spanning over 3,000 square feet of indoor retail space. As reported by Tribal Business News, the store currently employs 14 individuals. Additionally, the tribe has created a 1,400 square-foot outdoor area where cannabis consumption is permitted and intends to utilize this space for hosting social events and accommodating food trucks.
Under the brand name Four Winds, the Pokagon tribe manages and runs three casinos located in Dowagiac, Hartford, and New Buffalo, all situated in Michigan.
Grand Traverse Bay Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians – Beach Fire Cannabis
Beach Fire Cannabis, a subsidiary of tribal operations, opened its store in March. It is conveniently located next to the Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel in Acme Township, which is where the tribal property is situated. Despite the fact that Acme Township and Whitewater Township do not permit adult-use marijuana licensing, the Grand Traverse Band, as a sovereign nation, is not affected by this restriction.
In northern Michigan, both Turtle Creek Casino and Leelanau Sands Casino are operated by GTB.
Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians – Lume Cannabis Co.
Lume Cannabis Co., owned by the Sault Tribe, is responsible for the cultivation, processing, and distribution of both recreational and medicinal cannabis products. The Lume Store can be found at 246 3 Mile Road in Sault Ste. Marie, situated on land owned by the Sault Ste. Marie tribe.
Lume president and COO, Doug Hellyar, expressed his pride in Lume’s extensive selection of safe and premium THC and CBD products. He eagerly anticipated introducing their brand and presenting cannabis in a fresh perspective to adult-use consumers in Sault Ste. Marie and the eastern Upper Peninsula. This statement was made in a 2021 interview shortly before the store’s opening.
Kewadin Casinos are owned and operated by the Sault Tribe.
